Earth science literacy is critical to meet the needs of modern society. The study of the Earth is focused not only on the rocks and minerals that make up solid Earth but also on the interaction of these materials with other earth systems. An understanding of Earth’s evolution through time allows earth scientists to interpret present-day conditions on the planet and predict how it changes in the future; these changes will affect both human societies and the natural environment. Earth scientists are stewards of the planet’s mineral, energy and water resources. Earth scientist must also be problem solvers, as Earth’s natural resources are currently threatened by climate change, overconsumption and natural disasters

Students completing the two-year program will receive a diploma in Earth Sciences and be eligible for transfer into upper-level standing in many Canadian B.Sc. geoscience degree programs. A block transfer agreement between Yukon University and Vancouver Island University (VIU) allows Earth Science program graduates to easily transfer between institutions and directly apply all completed courses towards completion of a B.Sc. in geoscience from VIU's Department of Earth Science. Students can complete the Earth Sciences diploma program with two years of full-time study. Students have reduced course requirements in the summer months to allow for geoscience work experiences. Recommended course completion matrices for each year are provided .